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Shilsen's Eberron SH (Finished - The Last Word : 9/20/15)
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<blockquote data-quote="shilsen" data-source="post: 3805175" data-attributes="member: 198"><p>After having collected most things that weren’t nailed down – and a couple that were – the Angels retrace their way to the main hall. The scorched and battered bodies of the boneclaws still litter the floor, but moving among them are a number of armed and armored men with worried expressions. The majority wear the same uniforms, and the two who do not, have holy symbols of the Blood of Vol prominently displayed on their chests. All of them quickly raise their weapons as the Angels walk in, and one of the priests says sharply, “Halt and identify yourselves! We are the city watch of Atur! Did you do this?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes,” says Gareth, “We did. This temple is a secret cell of the Emerald Claw.”</p><p></p><p>“What? We were informed that….” The man falls silent, gaping at the sight of Luna squeezing her way into the hall. “Err … you have a bear?!” One of the watchmen, all of whom have stepped back and are looking even more concerned than they already were, mutters, “Vol protect us – that thing’s huge!”</p><p></p><p>Korm says, “Oh yeah – he’s dead!” a second before Luna steps forward and growls, “Who are these idiots?”</p><p></p><p>“You have a <em>talking</em> bear? Who <em>are</em> you people?”</p><p></p><p>“The Guardian Angels,” replies Gareth.</p><p></p><p>“Guardian angels?”</p><p></p><p>“<em>The</em> Guardian Angels. From Sharn. The same guys who escorted Princess Haydith ir’Wynarn from Wroat to Korth, and destroyed dozens of Emerald Claw attackers who attacked us on the way. Those Guardian Angels.”</p><p></p><p>“Oh!” The priest visibly collects himself and then says slowly, “Yes, we have heard of you. But what are you doing here? Some people from the temple came to the guard house and said it had been attacked, so we hurried here.”</p><p></p><p>“This temple, as I said, was actually being run by an Emerald Claw cell. They were constructing strange undead, like these ones,” Gareth indicates the boneclaws, “And had an unusual mummy and a partly-constructed charnel hound, which we also destroyed. They were also holding prisoners against their will and sacrificing them. That is not acceptable even within the Blood of Vol, is it?”</p><p></p><p>The priest’s face tightens slightly at the ‘even’ and his eyes flicker across the symbols of the Silver Flame gleaming on Gareth’s breastplate, but he says simply, “No, it is not. But do you have any proof of these allegations?”</p><p></p><p>Nameless produces the papers the group found and hands them over. “We found these in a concealed compartment in the high priestess’ safe. By the way, could you be a little quick about it? We have a lizardman army to destroy at 12:30.” The priest’s expression says that he really wants to ask a question, but he evidently decides that not knowing is probably better. He silently accepts the documents and leafs through them quickly, stopping to pass some on to the second priest and read others in more detail, a frown spreading across his face. After a few moments, he hands them back. “I see you were telling the truth. If I may ask – why is it a concern of yours? On what authority are you here?”</p><p></p><p>“On the authority of King Kaius III,” says Gareth, “We’re doing a favor for Regent Moranna, who speaks for him, as you know. If you have any questions, take them up with her.”</p><p></p><p>There is silence for a few moments, and then the priest says, “I see.” He hesitates, but then adds, “Even if this place had been used by the Emerald Claw, it is still a temple of the Blood, so I must ask – what have you taken from this place?”</p><p></p><p>“That does it!” growls Luna, rearing up. “I’ve had it up to <em>here</em> with people taking our things! If you even <em>think</em> of asking for any of our stuff, I will <em>eat</em> your face!”</p><p></p><p>The unfortunate priest blanches visibly, and a couple of the guardsmen take a couple of quick steps for the door, clearly about to flee. The second priest grabs at his holy symbol, but before things can devolve into another massacre, Gareth quickly speaks up. “Listen to me! We are here to do a job for our king. Yes – <em>our</em> – since I’m Karrnathi too, in case that matters. And we’ve just taken down an Emerald Claw cell, risking our lives in the process.” Ignoring the stage whisper of “Not that much,” from Six, the paladin continues, “You have neither the authority, nor the power, to question us. As I mentioned before, if you have any questions, you can speak to the king or to the Regent. We are leaving now, and for your sakes, do <em>not</em> attempt to stay us. The only result will be your deaths and a minor waste of time for us. If you do not believe anything else I have said, believe me on this score.”</p><p></p><p>The priest searches Gareth’s expression, finding only truth there, and nods slowly. “Very well. I protest, but I shall not attempt to stop you.”</p><p></p><p>“Good.” The Angels walk through the priests and watchmen, who hastily get out of their way, and through the open doorway of the temple into the open air. Nameless prepares to <em>teleport</em> them away, when Luna says, “Wait! Where are you taking us?”</p><p></p><p>“Back to Korth, so we can discuss what we found with Moranna.”</p><p></p><p>“Hell, no! First we go back to Gareth’s place and dump all the stuff! You know she’s going to ask for our stuff too!”</p><p></p><p>“You are a strange, strange woman. All right then.”</p><p></p><p>* * * </p><p>“… so we came back here,” Luna explains to Leanna and Elaine, as the Angels relax in Karrlakton.</p><p></p><p>“That was very … interesting,” says Elaine, a hint of concern evident in her eyes as she glances at her son. “Tell me, what are your plans for tomorrow?”</p><p></p><p>“We’ll go to Korth and speak to Moranna,” says Nameless, “And we’re planning to return to Sharn to find out about that situation in Q’barra we mentioned.” He indicates the Korranberg Chronicle, which he has been reading. “Apparently the problems with the lizardfolk are growing, and a lizardfolk army attacked and totally destroyed a town. House Tharashk is also asking adventurers to come to Q’Barra to help with the situation. Not surprising, since it must make harvesting dragonshards complicated.”</p><p></p><p>“All right. Do you think you could be at home for dinner tomorrow?” Though she speaks generally, Elaine’s eyes are again on Gareth. Curious what his mother has in mind, he replies, “I’m sure we could. Why?”</p><p></p><p>“I’m planning to have a small party. I’d mentioned that you were home to a couple of friends and they wanted to stop in and say ‘hello,’ so I thought I’d call a few more friends over.”</p><p></p><p>“You want to show off the prodigal son, don’t you?” says Luna with a grin. “Are you inviting any girls for him?” Elaine laughs and replies, “Well, Yevana was bragging a bit about her son having been accepted at Rekkenmark Academy, so….” Catching Gareth’s expression, she quickly adds, “But no, I’m not doing any matchmaking.” </p><p></p><p>Leanna puts in firmly, “Yes. There is no need for that. You have far more important things to deal with now. With the power and abilities that have been bestowed upon you, your emphasis should be on delivering justice and righteousness where needed, as you did today.”</p><p></p><p>Korm chuckles. “You’re hardcore, grandma! Is there any way we could trade Gareth off for you?”</p><p></p><p>As the others laugh, Leanna says dryly, “You should be so lucky! Now tell me again about these undead that you encountered.”</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * * * * *</p><p>Early the next day, the Angels return to Korth to meet with Moranna and apprise her of all that they encountered and did. </p><p></p><p>“Thank you,” says the Regent, when they are done. “Let me see the documents you found.” After going through them, she nods. “Good. This may reveal more to us once we have examined them in detail. You mentioned that you found a Tome of Undead Transformation. May I see it?”</p><p></p><p>“Certainly,” says Gareth, “But I wish to take it to the Cathedral of the Flame in Sharn and destroy it.”</p><p></p><p>Moranna looks at the paladin, her expression inscrutable, and asks, “Why?”</p><p></p><p>“Because it can be used for creating powerful undead, and that is both unnatural and dangerous for the people of Khorvaire. I cannot allow this relic to be allowed to exist.” <em>And Ythana may be a little bit happier with me if I bring this to her to destroy.</em></p><p></p><p>“Very well. I would like to take it for a short time. I shall return it to you before you return to Sharn with the princess. It should provide us with valuable information, especially in conjunction with the other documents you obtained, about what types of undead the Emerald Claw may have constructed using it or are trying to.”</p><p></p><p><em>It’s a little hard to say no, and it’s not as if they can just make copies of the book, since the magic is bound to it.</em> “All right.” Gareth hands the book over and Moranna places it on the table, the attached claw uppermost. “Thank you,” she says, “What do you plan to do in the interim before you leave for Sharn?”</p><p></p><p>“Actually, we’re going back to Sharn right now. We’re planning to take a hand with the Q’barra situation. But we’ll definitely be back before the princess has to leave.”</p><p></p><p>“I see. I presume you’ll be back at your family home when in Karrnath. Correct?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes.”</p><p></p><p>“Good. There will be a package there for you sometime today.”</p><p></p><p>“Ooh!” Luna, who has only been half-listening to the conversation in case Moranna asks for more things from the group, promptly perks up. “Is it the reward? Is it something shiny?”</p><p></p><p>The Regent flashes the ghost of a smile, for the first time since the Angels met her. “Yes. And I cannot say. The king would prefer it to be a surprise.”</p><p></p><p>“Oh, come ooooonn!!!”</p><p></p><p>* * *</p><p>A few minutes later, the Angels are more than two thousand miles away, walking along the skybridges of Sharn. “You know,” says Gareth, looking over the edge of the bridge, “Whenever we spend time away from here, I realize exactly how weird this place is.”</p><p></p><p>“That’s interesting,” says Six, looking in another direction. He points at another warforged some distance away, walking away from the Angels. “I think he was wearing the same harness as me. I mean the way it was before Mordain modified it. Give me a few seconds.” He speeds up and quickly catches up to the other warforged. </p><p></p><p>“Excuse me,” says Six, “Can I speak to you?”</p><p></p><p>The other warforged comes to a stop and nods, “Yes.” Six notes that he has the thick armor plating of a model designed for heavy infantry work, and a very functional looking flail hangs by his side. Six also pays especial attention to the harness, which does look exactly like the one he had. On closer inspection, there is one difference – the symbol of the Fabricators Guild of House Cannith etched in the center of the harness. </p><p></p><p>“My name is Mithral Six of Six. I was curious about this harness that you are wearing. Could you tell me where you got it?” <em>Though I think I’ve already got the answer.</em></p><p></p><p>“Six of Six? I have heard of you. You are one of the Guardian Angels, are you not? I am Forty-Two.” The tone and somewhat stilted manner of speech indicates to Six that Forty-Two has comparatively limited experience interacting socially with others. Forty-Two touches the harness and says, “I was given this by House Cannith. I work as a guard in the Cannith Forgehold in Ashblack in the Upper Cogs, and the House is giving these to a number of guards. It makes us stronger and more durable.” He stops speaking. </p><p></p><p>When the silence is about to grow uncomfortable, Six says, “Thank you. That’s all I needed to do.” Forty-Two says nothing but simply watches silently, so Six gives him a friendly nod, turns and walks back to join the others. “Looks like Cannith is producing copies of the harness,” he explains. “Once we’re done with Joseth and finding out about Q’barra, I’d like to visit House Cannith before we leave. Need to talk about my finder’s fee.” <em>And find out exactly what it is that they’re producing.</em></p><p></p><p>“That should be fine,” says Gareth. “I want to visit the Cathedral and talk to the Archierophant too.”</p><p></p><p>“And at the very same moment I shall be visiting some place that is not the Cathedral and speaking to someone who is not Ythana,” says Nameless firmly. “I’m not yet sure where and who that will be, but I’m confident I’ll be busy there.”</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>Joseth is understandably pleased to see the Angels, and even more so when he learns they are both free and in the mood for destroying a lizardfolk army. “Naturally,” he points out, “I have only limited information about the situation there, but I know for a fact that things are steadily getting worse, and I’m sure your aid will be very valuable. You should speak to First Minister Alzia ir’Kesslan when you arrive in Newthrone. Actually, how will you be going there?”</p><p></p><p>“I’ll <em>teleport</em> us there,” says Nameless. “We’ll have to do it tomorrow morning, since we’ve got a few things to do today. So I need a particular location and a detailed description. A picture would be even better, as long as it’s accurate.” </p><p></p><p>“I … see. I’m not sure I have a picture, but I’ll give you a specific description of part of the palace close to the First Minister’s offices. And a letter of introduction. I’ll send off a Sivis message today, which should be there by the time you arrive, but a letter will ensure there are no complications. Give me a few minutes.”</p><p></p><p>In fifteen minutes, Joseth hands the Angels a sealed letter and a detailed description of the location they should arrive at. With that taken care of, the group leaves his home and splits up, Six and Gareth going their respective ways and the others going to visit Trillia.</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>“Greetings, Gareth,” says Ythana Morr coldly as he is shown into her office. “How may I help you?”</p><p></p><p>“Thank you for seeing me, Archierophant,” says the paladin, taking a seat, “I wanted to speak to you about a number of things. Regarding Nameless going to Flamekeep to meet the Keeper…”</p><p></p><p>Ythana cuts him off. “That will no longer be necessary.”</p><p></p><p><em>Huh?</em> “The Keeper doesn’t wish to speak to Nameless?” <em>What happened?</em></p><p></p><p>“I have had a communication from Flamekeep to say that you did not need to travel there. Were you here to tell me that you were about to do so?”</p><p></p><p>“Not exactly, but we do have some free time coming up, so once we do a couple of things that are next on our agenda, we would have been able to…”</p><p></p><p>“I see. So you were <em>not</em> intending to travel to Flamekeep right now. What else did you wish to speak to me about?”</p><p></p><p>“We destroyed an Emerald Claw operation disguised as a temple of the Blood of Vol, and I recovered a foul relic, a Tome of Undead Transformation, which they were using to create powerful undead. I was hoping that you could help me destroy it.”</p><p></p><p>“May I see it?”</p><p></p><p>“Umm … actually I loaned it to Regent Moranna in Karrnath, but I plan to bring it here once I have it back from her, and…”</p><p></p><p>“Let me see if I understand this correctly,” says Ythana, leaning forward, her tone taking on the coldness of a Karrnathi winter. “You arrived here to tell me that you and your companions were willing to go to Flamekeep, but are currently too busy to do so, and that you wished me to destroy a relic, which you do not currently have and have left in the hands of the Regent of Karrnath. Am I correct?”</p><p></p><p><em>Okay – so it sounds bad when you say it that way!</em> “Err … yes.”</p><p></p><p>“I’m pleased to see that I have a clear understanding. Thank you for your kindness in informing me of the above. Please feel free to stop by whenever it is convenient for you again.”</p><p></p><p>. . . . .</p><p></p><p>Six’s visit to House Cannith is significantly more pleasant than Gareth’s encounter with the Archierophant. Not only has he been there before but his reputation means he gets quicker results and is allowed to jump a few queues. Soon enough, he is sitting in a small office adjoining the Cannith laboratories. </p><p></p><p>Rowal d’Cannith, the artificer who had studied the harness on his previous visit over a month and a half ago, enters with a pleased smile. “Six of Six! Good to see you again! What can I do for you?”</p><p></p><p>“I need a little information about that harness I showed you. I met a warforged today wearing one exactly like it, made by your Fabricators Guild. Are you producing and selling them now?”</p><p></p><p>Rowal nods, his smile broadening. “Making, not selling. At least not yet. It took a month of really complicated work, and we only started producing them two weeks ago. And we’d never have got that far, if we hadn’t coincidentally found that one of our older schemas could be applied to making them. But now we can make them and we’re testing them out on some of the Cannith warforged, before we put them on the market. At least I think that’s the plan. I’m not exactly up on the marketing end of things, and I’ve been working hard on the production angle. It’s been very exciting!” He beams at Six. “So tell me – what have you been up to? Doing well, I hope.”</p><p></p><p>The question confirms for Six, if he hadn’t been certain already, that Rowal is not a man who pays much attention to things going on outside his workshops. “Yes, I am,” he replies simply. “Have you learned anything new about the harness?”</p><p></p><p>“Not really. It has all those strengthening and protective properties you know of, and it binds to the user, which is rare for warforged components. We tried to build it without that property, but we couldn’t. And there are a couple of elements in the design that seem necessary to the whole but whose precise function we’re not sure of. That’s why we’re testing it out first before releasing it.” Rowal studies Six and says, “Your harness looks different. What did you do with it? Have you learned anything new about it?”</p><p></p><p>“Actually, it’s been drastically modified by a powerful mage named Mordain the Fleshweaver. So it’s quite different from what it was?”</p><p></p><p>“Really? I don’t know this Mordain, but it sounds very interesting. Do you think we could take a look at it sometime? How about now?”</p><p></p><p>“I am too busy right now, but maybe some other time. Also, I was wondering – could I speak to some of the people making the decisions about producing these harnesses?”</p><p></p><p>“Huh?” Rowal scratches his chin, clearly not having anticipated the request. “Sure. It would take a couple of days to arrange, but I could do that. Anything particular you want to talk to them about?” </p><p></p><p>“Since you are producing copies of something I found, I was just wondering if I might not deserve a finder’s fee.” <em>And I have a few questions you probably can’t answer.</em></p><p></p><p>“Okay. That’s not something I have any control over, but I’m sure they’ll be willing. When would you like me to set it up?”</p><p></p><p>“How about a week from today?”</p><p></p><p>“5 Aryth? Sure. Anyway, are you sure you need to leave now? I’d really like to get a look at that harness.”</p><p></p><p>“Sorry,” says Six, “But not today. Maybe on the 5th. I’ll see you then.”</p><p></p><p>* * *</p><p>When the Angels eventually return to Gareth’s home, there is a large sealed Sivis envelope waiting for them. Luna promptly grabs it and rips it open, luckily not tearing the documents it contains. The first is a Kundarak banknote, made out to the “Guardian Angels of Sharn” and identifying the various members of the group by name, which can be deposited or exchanged at any Kundarak bank on the continent in exchange for the sum of ten thousand galifars.</p><p></p><p>“Nice!” says Luna. “That takes care of the budget for getting the furniture upholstered. Now what’s this?” She extracts a second document, this one significantly larger and much more ornate, bearing multiple signatures and two prominently displayed <em>arcane mark</em>s. She reads the first couple of lines. “Title deed to Schiffel estate? What the hell is Schiffel estate?”</p><p></p><p>“That’s the one next door to ours,” says Gareth, pointing out of a window at the abandoned estate lying in disrepair on the other side of the wall of his family’s land. </p><p></p><p>“Hah!” Luna guffaws in amusement and then hands over the document. “Tell your mom to get used to us. We’re gonna be neighbours!”</p><p></p><p>“What?” Gareth quickly scans the document and then grins. “Luna’s right. We just got handed the estate next door. This should be interesting. It may be in disrepair now, but it used to …,” he pauses, looking at Luna, as she rises and transforms into a very large hawk. “Where are you going?”</p><p></p><p>“Where do you think? I’m going exploring. Yeah, okay – I already went exploring there last night, but this time I’m doing it legally! Six – you wanna come along? The building’s gone to crap, but I took a peek last night and I think the cellars are still fine.”</p><p></p><p>“Sure,” says Six, “Should be interesting.” As he rises and strides towards the exit, Luna flies out of the window.</p><p></p><p>“Don’t forget we’re having a par…,” Gareth begins to call after them, before Korm taps him on the shoulder. The Gatekeeper shakes his head. “Why are you suggesting the woman with the <em>flame strike</em>s actually comes <em>back</em> to a formal party?”</p><p></p><p>“Good point.” Gareth raises his voice and shouts out the window, “See you tomorrow, Luna!”</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>Unfortunately, Luna and Six return in time for the party, with the results of their explorations. They explain that the decrepit building at the center of the Schiffel estate is in almost total disrepair, but the basement and cellars below it are in significantly better condition. “We could set up some fairly good quarters down there,” says Luna. “Six already said he’s planning to stay there while we’re in Karrnath.” The warforged nods.</p><p></p><p>“But why the cellars? It should be fairly easy to restore the building. We have the money for it, and it would just be a matter of time, and we could the grounds cleared at the same time.”</p><p></p><p>“No, no – no clearing, thank you. Leave the place overgrown. Korm and I can increase that with the right spells, and that would make it a much easier place to defend if we need to.”</p><p></p><p>“You know,” says Korm, “And I don’t normally get to say this, but Luna has a point. It would be like having our own little forest.”</p><p></p><p>“I agree,” says Six, and Nameless nods too. “All right,” says Gareth a little grudgingly, “But now we need to get ready for the party.”</p><p></p><p>Luckily, the party is much smaller than Gareth had feared, with only just over a dozen guests present, almost all of whom he knows. The entire affair is simple and comfortable, consisting of a richly traditional Karrnathi dinner followed by drinks and dessert on the sprawling verandah overlooking the estate’s gardens afterwards.</p><p></p><p>At dinner, Elaine seats Gareth next to a middle-aged man of martial bearing, whom she introduces as Marshal Arend d’Deneith. The gray-bearded warrior, whom Gareth remembers as an old friend of his father, spends most of dinner talking to the paladin. Arend congratulates Gareth and his friends on their increasing fame and on the job they did protecting Haydith. He also asks about the incident in the Lhazaar Principalities, and Gareth hastens to explain that the Angels had nothing to do with it.</p><p></p><p>Finally, Arend says, “I also have a message for you. Baron Breven d’Deneith would like to meet you.”</p><p></p><p>“All right,” says Gareth, knowing that the Baron – the head of House Deneith – is a distant cousin of his father. “Do you know why?”</p><p></p><p>“No, but I presume it’s to offer you work within the House.” Arend produces a small envelope, bearing the three-headed chimera that symbolizes House Deneith, overlaid with the personal seal of the Baron. “You’ll need this to get into Sentinel Tower and to see him. It’s effectively unheard of for the Baron to invite or make time for unaffiliated people to speak with him.” Arend smiles. “Even if it’s an unaffiliated person who’s a member of the most famous adventurers in Khorvaire.”</p><p></p><p>“Thank you,” says Gareth, recalling that on the occasions when his father had taken him to Sentinel Tower, he had never seen Baron Breven, except once in the distance. </p><p></p><p>“Don’t thank me. You’ve earned it.” Arend smiles again. “Byron would have been proud of you and the man you have become.”</p><p></p><p>Gareth bows his head in acknowledgement. As his eyes fall on his metal hand, he wonders for a moment if his father would also have been as favorably disposed towards what he has become – especially since even he is not completely certain what it is.</p><p></p><p>* * * * * * * * * *</p><p>The next morning finds Gareth sitting across a large desk from Breven d’Deneith. The windows of the Baron’s gigantic office, high in Sentinel Tower, originally looked out over the city of Karrlakton and past the river into Cyre, but now the paladin’s eyes are constantly drawn to the wall of gray mist across the river. But his attention returns to the Baron as Breven speaks. The head of House Deneith looks the part, his granite gray hair matching a face that seems carved out of rock, and he gets directly to the point.</p><p></p><p>“I have been hearing about you and your companions a great deal recently, Gareth. According to Lord Sadran and Lalia from Sharn, you are interested in working for the House?”</p><p></p><p><em>No surprise there.</em> “Yes, I am. But I invariably seem to have many things keeping me busy, so I was hoping I could do so in a somewhat … freelance capacity.”</p><p></p><p>“And your companions in the Guardian Angels? Would they be interested in working for the House?”</p><p></p><p><em>I’m so glad Luna wasn’t here to hear this.</em>“Actually, they’re one of the reasons I cannot commit to being a full member of the House. We all have different aims and interests, even though we work together, and I can’t see them – and, in all honesty, myself – being able or willing to follow any task the House assigns.”</p><p></p><p>“I see. I am not surprised. I am fairly well informed about your group, and I believe your abilities would be wasted in the Defenders Guild. And you need to be members of the bloodline to be Sentinel Marshals. Also, each of those roles would require you to be constantly available to the House, and that, as you say, is not possible. The best option, as I see it, is for you to take a role as auxiliaries with connections to the Blademark.” Breven leans forward on his desk and continues, “I presume you are aware of the fact that there has probably not been a team of individuals with such diverse and extensive powers as you and your allies since the early days of the War, and certainly not one that was not officially affiliated with any nation. That puts you in a very unique position. Especially since your companion Nameless is evidently able to <em>teleport</em> you across Khorvaire now. I suggest that we establish a partnership between the Guardian Angels and House Deneith, where you will be contacted regarding situations around Khorvaire, which – if you are free – you can rapidly respond to. House Deneith can either put you in touch or handle negotiations with the concerned parties as you prefer, ensuring that they are reliable and what your appropriate payment will be.” </p><p></p><p>“That seems reasonable, as long as it’s clear that we will not be able to accept all offers.” <em>I think.</em></p><p></p><p>“Certainly. I shall have the Sharn enclave handle the details. Will you be back there soon?”</p><p></p><p>“We plan to be back on and off in between, but we’ll be back for certain after 2 weeks. Right now we are going to Q’barra to deal with the problem with the lizardfolk.”</p><p></p><p>“I see.” Breven falls silent for a few seconds, a calculating look in his gray eyes, and then seems to come to a decision. “I wish you the best of luck.”</p><p></p><p>. . .</p><p></p><p>When Gareth rejoins the others, he gives them a quick synopsis of his meeting with Breven. The others show him an article which came out in the Korranberg Chronicle that morning. It is a small one about the Lhazaar situation, saying that Prince Ryger has announced that he accepts the Angels’ innocence regarding the attack on the Sea Dragons fleet. He also said that he is interested in speaking to them about the fact that they were framed and invites them to visit Regalport, hopefully soon. </p><p></p><p>“I’d say that’s a politely political way of saying he wants us to do the searching for him,” says Gareth.</p><p></p><p>“Maybe, but why don’t we visit him?” says Luna.</p><p></p><p>“Huh?” Korm looks at her in surprise and with a little suspicion. “I thought you’d be screaming about him wanting to give us a job and threatening to kill him if he made an offer and us if we accepted. What gives?”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t do that!” says Luna indignantly. After looking at the four expressions (with even Six’s unchanging visage managing to convey his thoughts on the subject) that meet the comment, she throws her hands in the air and admits, “Okay, okay – I may say that sometimes! I just thought it might be fun to check this one out.”</p><p></p><p>“Why?” asks Six. “What is different here?”</p><p></p><p>Luna looks mutinous and reluctant to add more, but finally she says, “I was talking to Elaine about Ryger and she mentioned that he’s single and unattached. And supposed to be quite handsome. I was thinking that maybe I’d like to be a pirate princess.”</p><p></p><p>There is silence for a moment as everyone’s mind unwillingly comprehends the images the statement creates. “All right,” says Nameless finally, and flatly. “We’re taking Regalport off our ‘to do’ list.”</p><p></p><p>“What?! Just because I want to meet some guy? Go to hell!” Luna gives a dirty look at Korm, who has dissolved into helpless laughter, and growls, “I would make an awesome pirate princess! And just think how much you guys could make out of the deal!”</p><p></p><p>“I don’t think there’s enough money to make that worthwhile,” mutters Gareth.</p><p></p><p>“Phhftt!! You idiots are just jealous! Anyway, the Lhazaar Principalities are supposed to be beautiful, and there are tons of empty islands over there. We could easily find one of our own, to go with the house in Sharn and the estate here. I’d love to have my own island!”</p><p></p><p>“Sometimes I would love you to have your own island too,” says Six, with a metallic chuckle.</p><p></p><p>Before Luna can reply, Nameless cuts in. “Fine – we’ll visit Regalport later, but first we’re off to Q’barra. Everyone gather around.”</p><p></p><p>“Hold on,” says Gareth, heading for the door. “I have to tell mom we probably won’t be home for dinner.”</p><p></p><p>As he exits, Nameless shakes his head. “We have got to be the only adventurers on the planet who have to do that before we leave home.”</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="shilsen, post: 3805175, member: 198"] After having collected most things that weren’t nailed down – and a couple that were – the Angels retrace their way to the main hall. The scorched and battered bodies of the boneclaws still litter the floor, but moving among them are a number of armed and armored men with worried expressions. The majority wear the same uniforms, and the two who do not, have holy symbols of the Blood of Vol prominently displayed on their chests. All of them quickly raise their weapons as the Angels walk in, and one of the priests says sharply, “Halt and identify yourselves! We are the city watch of Atur! Did you do this?” “Yes,” says Gareth, “We did. This temple is a secret cell of the Emerald Claw.” “What? We were informed that….” The man falls silent, gaping at the sight of Luna squeezing her way into the hall. “Err … you have a bear?!” One of the watchmen, all of whom have stepped back and are looking even more concerned than they already were, mutters, “Vol protect us – that thing’s huge!” Korm says, “Oh yeah – he’s dead!” a second before Luna steps forward and growls, “Who are these idiots?” “You have a [i]talking[/i] bear? Who [i]are[/i] you people?” “The Guardian Angels,” replies Gareth. “Guardian angels?” “[i]The[/i] Guardian Angels. From Sharn. The same guys who escorted Princess Haydith ir’Wynarn from Wroat to Korth, and destroyed dozens of Emerald Claw attackers who attacked us on the way. Those Guardian Angels.” “Oh!” The priest visibly collects himself and then says slowly, “Yes, we have heard of you. But what are you doing here? Some people from the temple came to the guard house and said it had been attacked, so we hurried here.” “This temple, as I said, was actually being run by an Emerald Claw cell. They were constructing strange undead, like these ones,” Gareth indicates the boneclaws, “And had an unusual mummy and a partly-constructed charnel hound, which we also destroyed. They were also holding prisoners against their will and sacrificing them. That is not acceptable even within the Blood of Vol, is it?” The priest’s face tightens slightly at the ‘even’ and his eyes flicker across the symbols of the Silver Flame gleaming on Gareth’s breastplate, but he says simply, “No, it is not. But do you have any proof of these allegations?” Nameless produces the papers the group found and hands them over. “We found these in a concealed compartment in the high priestess’ safe. By the way, could you be a little quick about it? We have a lizardman army to destroy at 12:30.” The priest’s expression says that he really wants to ask a question, but he evidently decides that not knowing is probably better. He silently accepts the documents and leafs through them quickly, stopping to pass some on to the second priest and read others in more detail, a frown spreading across his face. After a few moments, he hands them back. “I see you were telling the truth. If I may ask – why is it a concern of yours? On what authority are you here?” “On the authority of King Kaius III,” says Gareth, “We’re doing a favor for Regent Moranna, who speaks for him, as you know. If you have any questions, take them up with her.” There is silence for a few moments, and then the priest says, “I see.” He hesitates, but then adds, “Even if this place had been used by the Emerald Claw, it is still a temple of the Blood, so I must ask – what have you taken from this place?” “That does it!” growls Luna, rearing up. “I’ve had it up to [i]here[/i] with people taking our things! If you even [i]think[/i] of asking for any of our stuff, I will [i]eat[/i] your face!” The unfortunate priest blanches visibly, and a couple of the guardsmen take a couple of quick steps for the door, clearly about to flee. The second priest grabs at his holy symbol, but before things can devolve into another massacre, Gareth quickly speaks up. “Listen to me! We are here to do a job for our king. Yes – [i]our[/i] – since I’m Karrnathi too, in case that matters. And we’ve just taken down an Emerald Claw cell, risking our lives in the process.” Ignoring the stage whisper of “Not that much,” from Six, the paladin continues, “You have neither the authority, nor the power, to question us. As I mentioned before, if you have any questions, you can speak to the king or to the Regent. We are leaving now, and for your sakes, do [i]not[/i] attempt to stay us. The only result will be your deaths and a minor waste of time for us. If you do not believe anything else I have said, believe me on this score.” The priest searches Gareth’s expression, finding only truth there, and nods slowly. “Very well. I protest, but I shall not attempt to stop you.” “Good.” The Angels walk through the priests and watchmen, who hastily get out of their way, and through the open doorway of the temple into the open air. Nameless prepares to [i]teleport[/i] them away, when Luna says, “Wait! Where are you taking us?” “Back to Korth, so we can discuss what we found with Moranna.” “Hell, no! First we go back to Gareth’s place and dump all the stuff! You know she’s going to ask for our stuff too!” “You are a strange, strange woman. All right then.” * * * “… so we came back here,” Luna explains to Leanna and Elaine, as the Angels relax in Karrlakton. “That was very … interesting,” says Elaine, a hint of concern evident in her eyes as she glances at her son. “Tell me, what are your plans for tomorrow?” “We’ll go to Korth and speak to Moranna,” says Nameless, “And we’re planning to return to Sharn to find out about that situation in Q’barra we mentioned.” He indicates the Korranberg Chronicle, which he has been reading. “Apparently the problems with the lizardfolk are growing, and a lizardfolk army attacked and totally destroyed a town. House Tharashk is also asking adventurers to come to Q’Barra to help with the situation. Not surprising, since it must make harvesting dragonshards complicated.” “All right. Do you think you could be at home for dinner tomorrow?” Though she speaks generally, Elaine’s eyes are again on Gareth. Curious what his mother has in mind, he replies, “I’m sure we could. Why?” “I’m planning to have a small party. I’d mentioned that you were home to a couple of friends and they wanted to stop in and say ‘hello,’ so I thought I’d call a few more friends over.” “You want to show off the prodigal son, don’t you?” says Luna with a grin. “Are you inviting any girls for him?” Elaine laughs and replies, “Well, Yevana was bragging a bit about her son having been accepted at Rekkenmark Academy, so….” Catching Gareth’s expression, she quickly adds, “But no, I’m not doing any matchmaking.” Leanna puts in firmly, “Yes. There is no need for that. You have far more important things to deal with now. With the power and abilities that have been bestowed upon you, your emphasis should be on delivering justice and righteousness where needed, as you did today.” Korm chuckles. “You’re hardcore, grandma! Is there any way we could trade Gareth off for you?” As the others laugh, Leanna says dryly, “You should be so lucky! Now tell me again about these undead that you encountered.” * * * * * * * * * * Early the next day, the Angels return to Korth to meet with Moranna and apprise her of all that they encountered and did. “Thank you,” says the Regent, when they are done. “Let me see the documents you found.” After going through them, she nods. “Good. This may reveal more to us once we have examined them in detail. You mentioned that you found a Tome of Undead Transformation. May I see it?” “Certainly,” says Gareth, “But I wish to take it to the Cathedral of the Flame in Sharn and destroy it.” Moranna looks at the paladin, her expression inscrutable, and asks, “Why?” “Because it can be used for creating powerful undead, and that is both unnatural and dangerous for the people of Khorvaire. I cannot allow this relic to be allowed to exist.” [i]And Ythana may be a little bit happier with me if I bring this to her to destroy.[/i] “Very well. I would like to take it for a short time. I shall return it to you before you return to Sharn with the princess. It should provide us with valuable information, especially in conjunction with the other documents you obtained, about what types of undead the Emerald Claw may have constructed using it or are trying to.” [i]It’s a little hard to say no, and it’s not as if they can just make copies of the book, since the magic is bound to it.[/i] “All right.” Gareth hands the book over and Moranna places it on the table, the attached claw uppermost. “Thank you,” she says, “What do you plan to do in the interim before you leave for Sharn?” “Actually, we’re going back to Sharn right now. We’re planning to take a hand with the Q’barra situation. But we’ll definitely be back before the princess has to leave.” “I see. I presume you’ll be back at your family home when in Karrnath. Correct?” “Yes.” “Good. There will be a package there for you sometime today.” “Ooh!” Luna, who has only been half-listening to the conversation in case Moranna asks for more things from the group, promptly perks up. “Is it the reward? Is it something shiny?” The Regent flashes the ghost of a smile, for the first time since the Angels met her. “Yes. And I cannot say. The king would prefer it to be a surprise.” “Oh, come ooooonn!!!” * * * A few minutes later, the Angels are more than two thousand miles away, walking along the skybridges of Sharn. “You know,” says Gareth, looking over the edge of the bridge, “Whenever we spend time away from here, I realize exactly how weird this place is.” “That’s interesting,” says Six, looking in another direction. He points at another warforged some distance away, walking away from the Angels. “I think he was wearing the same harness as me. I mean the way it was before Mordain modified it. Give me a few seconds.” He speeds up and quickly catches up to the other warforged. “Excuse me,” says Six, “Can I speak to you?” The other warforged comes to a stop and nods, “Yes.” Six notes that he has the thick armor plating of a model designed for heavy infantry work, and a very functional looking flail hangs by his side. Six also pays especial attention to the harness, which does look exactly like the one he had. On closer inspection, there is one difference – the symbol of the Fabricators Guild of House Cannith etched in the center of the harness. “My name is Mithral Six of Six. I was curious about this harness that you are wearing. Could you tell me where you got it?” [i]Though I think I’ve already got the answer.[/i] “Six of Six? I have heard of you. You are one of the Guardian Angels, are you not? I am Forty-Two.” The tone and somewhat stilted manner of speech indicates to Six that Forty-Two has comparatively limited experience interacting socially with others. Forty-Two touches the harness and says, “I was given this by House Cannith. I work as a guard in the Cannith Forgehold in Ashblack in the Upper Cogs, and the House is giving these to a number of guards. It makes us stronger and more durable.” He stops speaking. When the silence is about to grow uncomfortable, Six says, “Thank you. That’s all I needed to do.” Forty-Two says nothing but simply watches silently, so Six gives him a friendly nod, turns and walks back to join the others. “Looks like Cannith is producing copies of the harness,” he explains. “Once we’re done with Joseth and finding out about Q’barra, I’d like to visit House Cannith before we leave. Need to talk about my finder’s fee.” [i]And find out exactly what it is that they’re producing.[/i] “That should be fine,” says Gareth. “I want to visit the Cathedral and talk to the Archierophant too.” “And at the very same moment I shall be visiting some place that is not the Cathedral and speaking to someone who is not Ythana,” says Nameless firmly. “I’m not yet sure where and who that will be, but I’m confident I’ll be busy there.” ….. Joseth is understandably pleased to see the Angels, and even more so when he learns they are both free and in the mood for destroying a lizardfolk army. “Naturally,” he points out, “I have only limited information about the situation there, but I know for a fact that things are steadily getting worse, and I’m sure your aid will be very valuable. You should speak to First Minister Alzia ir’Kesslan when you arrive in Newthrone. Actually, how will you be going there?” “I’ll [i]teleport[/i] us there,” says Nameless. “We’ll have to do it tomorrow morning, since we’ve got a few things to do today. So I need a particular location and a detailed description. A picture would be even better, as long as it’s accurate.” “I … see. I’m not sure I have a picture, but I’ll give you a specific description of part of the palace close to the First Minister’s offices. And a letter of introduction. I’ll send off a Sivis message today, which should be there by the time you arrive, but a letter will ensure there are no complications. Give me a few minutes.” In fifteen minutes, Joseth hands the Angels a sealed letter and a detailed description of the location they should arrive at. With that taken care of, the group leaves his home and splits up, Six and Gareth going their respective ways and the others going to visit Trillia. ….. “Greetings, Gareth,” says Ythana Morr coldly as he is shown into her office. “How may I help you?” “Thank you for seeing me, Archierophant,” says the paladin, taking a seat, “I wanted to speak to you about a number of things. Regarding Nameless going to Flamekeep to meet the Keeper…” Ythana cuts him off. “That will no longer be necessary.” [i]Huh?[/i] “The Keeper doesn’t wish to speak to Nameless?” [i]What happened?[/i] “I have had a communication from Flamekeep to say that you did not need to travel there. Were you here to tell me that you were about to do so?” “Not exactly, but we do have some free time coming up, so once we do a couple of things that are next on our agenda, we would have been able to…” “I see. So you were [i]not[/i] intending to travel to Flamekeep right now. What else did you wish to speak to me about?” “We destroyed an Emerald Claw operation disguised as a temple of the Blood of Vol, and I recovered a foul relic, a Tome of Undead Transformation, which they were using to create powerful undead. I was hoping that you could help me destroy it.” “May I see it?” “Umm … actually I loaned it to Regent Moranna in Karrnath, but I plan to bring it here once I have it back from her, and…” “Let me see if I understand this correctly,” says Ythana, leaning forward, her tone taking on the coldness of a Karrnathi winter. “You arrived here to tell me that you and your companions were willing to go to Flamekeep, but are currently too busy to do so, and that you wished me to destroy a relic, which you do not currently have and have left in the hands of the Regent of Karrnath. Am I correct?” [i]Okay – so it sounds bad when you say it that way![/i] “Err … yes.” “I’m pleased to see that I have a clear understanding. Thank you for your kindness in informing me of the above. Please feel free to stop by whenever it is convenient for you again.” . . . . . Six’s visit to House Cannith is significantly more pleasant than Gareth’s encounter with the Archierophant. Not only has he been there before but his reputation means he gets quicker results and is allowed to jump a few queues. Soon enough, he is sitting in a small office adjoining the Cannith laboratories. Rowal d’Cannith, the artificer who had studied the harness on his previous visit over a month and a half ago, enters with a pleased smile. “Six of Six! Good to see you again! What can I do for you?” “I need a little information about that harness I showed you. I met a warforged today wearing one exactly like it, made by your Fabricators Guild. Are you producing and selling them now?” Rowal nods, his smile broadening. “Making, not selling. At least not yet. It took a month of really complicated work, and we only started producing them two weeks ago. And we’d never have got that far, if we hadn’t coincidentally found that one of our older schemas could be applied to making them. But now we can make them and we’re testing them out on some of the Cannith warforged, before we put them on the market. At least I think that’s the plan. I’m not exactly up on the marketing end of things, and I’ve been working hard on the production angle. It’s been very exciting!” He beams at Six. “So tell me – what have you been up to? Doing well, I hope.” The question confirms for Six, if he hadn’t been certain already, that Rowal is not a man who pays much attention to things going on outside his workshops. “Yes, I am,” he replies simply. “Have you learned anything new about the harness?” “Not really. It has all those strengthening and protective properties you know of, and it binds to the user, which is rare for warforged components. We tried to build it without that property, but we couldn’t. And there are a couple of elements in the design that seem necessary to the whole but whose precise function we’re not sure of. That’s why we’re testing it out first before releasing it.” Rowal studies Six and says, “Your harness looks different. What did you do with it? Have you learned anything new about it?” “Actually, it’s been drastically modified by a powerful mage named Mordain the Fleshweaver. So it’s quite different from what it was?” “Really? I don’t know this Mordain, but it sounds very interesting. Do you think we could take a look at it sometime? How about now?” “I am too busy right now, but maybe some other time. Also, I was wondering – could I speak to some of the people making the decisions about producing these harnesses?” “Huh?” Rowal scratches his chin, clearly not having anticipated the request. “Sure. It would take a couple of days to arrange, but I could do that. Anything particular you want to talk to them about?” “Since you are producing copies of something I found, I was just wondering if I might not deserve a finder’s fee.” [i]And I have a few questions you probably can’t answer.[/i] “Okay. That’s not something I have any control over, but I’m sure they’ll be willing. When would you like me to set it up?” “How about a week from today?” “5 Aryth? Sure. Anyway, are you sure you need to leave now? I’d really like to get a look at that harness.” “Sorry,” says Six, “But not today. Maybe on the 5th. I’ll see you then.” * * * When the Angels eventually return to Gareth’s home, there is a large sealed Sivis envelope waiting for them. Luna promptly grabs it and rips it open, luckily not tearing the documents it contains. The first is a Kundarak banknote, made out to the “Guardian Angels of Sharn” and identifying the various members of the group by name, which can be deposited or exchanged at any Kundarak bank on the continent in exchange for the sum of ten thousand galifars. “Nice!” says Luna. “That takes care of the budget for getting the furniture upholstered. Now what’s this?” She extracts a second document, this one significantly larger and much more ornate, bearing multiple signatures and two prominently displayed [i]arcane mark[/i]s. She reads the first couple of lines. “Title deed to Schiffel estate? What the hell is Schiffel estate?” “That’s the one next door to ours,” says Gareth, pointing out of a window at the abandoned estate lying in disrepair on the other side of the wall of his family’s land. “Hah!” Luna guffaws in amusement and then hands over the document. “Tell your mom to get used to us. We’re gonna be neighbours!” “What?” Gareth quickly scans the document and then grins. “Luna’s right. We just got handed the estate next door. This should be interesting. It may be in disrepair now, but it used to …,” he pauses, looking at Luna, as she rises and transforms into a very large hawk. “Where are you going?” “Where do you think? I’m going exploring. Yeah, okay – I already went exploring there last night, but this time I’m doing it legally! Six – you wanna come along? The building’s gone to crap, but I took a peek last night and I think the cellars are still fine.” “Sure,” says Six, “Should be interesting.” As he rises and strides towards the exit, Luna flies out of the window. “Don’t forget we’re having a par…,” Gareth begins to call after them, before Korm taps him on the shoulder. The Gatekeeper shakes his head. “Why are you suggesting the woman with the [i]flame strike[/i]s actually comes [i]back[/i] to a formal party?” “Good point.” Gareth raises his voice and shouts out the window, “See you tomorrow, Luna!” ….. Unfortunately, Luna and Six return in time for the party, with the results of their explorations. They explain that the decrepit building at the center of the Schiffel estate is in almost total disrepair, but the basement and cellars below it are in significantly better condition. “We could set up some fairly good quarters down there,” says Luna. “Six already said he’s planning to stay there while we’re in Karrnath.” The warforged nods. “But why the cellars? It should be fairly easy to restore the building. We have the money for it, and it would just be a matter of time, and we could the grounds cleared at the same time.” “No, no – no clearing, thank you. Leave the place overgrown. Korm and I can increase that with the right spells, and that would make it a much easier place to defend if we need to.” “You know,” says Korm, “And I don’t normally get to say this, but Luna has a point. It would be like having our own little forest.” “I agree,” says Six, and Nameless nods too. “All right,” says Gareth a little grudgingly, “But now we need to get ready for the party.” Luckily, the party is much smaller than Gareth had feared, with only just over a dozen guests present, almost all of whom he knows. The entire affair is simple and comfortable, consisting of a richly traditional Karrnathi dinner followed by drinks and dessert on the sprawling verandah overlooking the estate’s gardens afterwards. At dinner, Elaine seats Gareth next to a middle-aged man of martial bearing, whom she introduces as Marshal Arend d’Deneith. The gray-bearded warrior, whom Gareth remembers as an old friend of his father, spends most of dinner talking to the paladin. Arend congratulates Gareth and his friends on their increasing fame and on the job they did protecting Haydith. He also asks about the incident in the Lhazaar Principalities, and Gareth hastens to explain that the Angels had nothing to do with it. Finally, Arend says, “I also have a message for you. Baron Breven d’Deneith would like to meet you.” “All right,” says Gareth, knowing that the Baron – the head of House Deneith – is a distant cousin of his father. “Do you know why?” “No, but I presume it’s to offer you work within the House.” Arend produces a small envelope, bearing the three-headed chimera that symbolizes House Deneith, overlaid with the personal seal of the Baron. “You’ll need this to get into Sentinel Tower and to see him. It’s effectively unheard of for the Baron to invite or make time for unaffiliated people to speak with him.” Arend smiles. “Even if it’s an unaffiliated person who’s a member of the most famous adventurers in Khorvaire.” “Thank you,” says Gareth, recalling that on the occasions when his father had taken him to Sentinel Tower, he had never seen Baron Breven, except once in the distance. “Don’t thank me. You’ve earned it.” Arend smiles again. “Byron would have been proud of you and the man you have become.” Gareth bows his head in acknowledgement. As his eyes fall on his metal hand, he wonders for a moment if his father would also have been as favorably disposed towards what he has become – especially since even he is not completely certain what it is. * * * * * * * * * * The next morning finds Gareth sitting across a large desk from Breven d’Deneith. The windows of the Baron’s gigantic office, high in Sentinel Tower, originally looked out over the city of Karrlakton and past the river into Cyre, but now the paladin’s eyes are constantly drawn to the wall of gray mist across the river. But his attention returns to the Baron as Breven speaks. The head of House Deneith looks the part, his granite gray hair matching a face that seems carved out of rock, and he gets directly to the point. “I have been hearing about you and your companions a great deal recently, Gareth. According to Lord Sadran and Lalia from Sharn, you are interested in working for the House?” [i]No surprise there.[/i] “Yes, I am. But I invariably seem to have many things keeping me busy, so I was hoping I could do so in a somewhat … freelance capacity.” “And your companions in the Guardian Angels? Would they be interested in working for the House?” [i]I’m so glad Luna wasn’t here to hear this.[/i]“Actually, they’re one of the reasons I cannot commit to being a full member of the House. We all have different aims and interests, even though we work together, and I can’t see them – and, in all honesty, myself – being able or willing to follow any task the House assigns.” “I see. I am not surprised. I am fairly well informed about your group, and I believe your abilities would be wasted in the Defenders Guild. And you need to be members of the bloodline to be Sentinel Marshals. Also, each of those roles would require you to be constantly available to the House, and that, as you say, is not possible. The best option, as I see it, is for you to take a role as auxiliaries with connections to the Blademark.” Breven leans forward on his desk and continues, “I presume you are aware of the fact that there has probably not been a team of individuals with such diverse and extensive powers as you and your allies since the early days of the War, and certainly not one that was not officially affiliated with any nation. That puts you in a very unique position. Especially since your companion Nameless is evidently able to [i]teleport[/i] you across Khorvaire now. I suggest that we establish a partnership between the Guardian Angels and House Deneith, where you will be contacted regarding situations around Khorvaire, which – if you are free – you can rapidly respond to. House Deneith can either put you in touch or handle negotiations with the concerned parties as you prefer, ensuring that they are reliable and what your appropriate payment will be.” “That seems reasonable, as long as it’s clear that we will not be able to accept all offers.” [i]I think.[/i] “Certainly. I shall have the Sharn enclave handle the details. Will you be back there soon?” “We plan to be back on and off in between, but we’ll be back for certain after 2 weeks. Right now we are going to Q’barra to deal with the problem with the lizardfolk.” “I see.” Breven falls silent for a few seconds, a calculating look in his gray eyes, and then seems to come to a decision. “I wish you the best of luck.” . . . When Gareth rejoins the others, he gives them a quick synopsis of his meeting with Breven. The others show him an article which came out in the Korranberg Chronicle that morning. It is a small one about the Lhazaar situation, saying that Prince Ryger has announced that he accepts the Angels’ innocence regarding the attack on the Sea Dragons fleet. He also said that he is interested in speaking to them about the fact that they were framed and invites them to visit Regalport, hopefully soon. “I’d say that’s a politely political way of saying he wants us to do the searching for him,” says Gareth. “Maybe, but why don’t we visit him?” says Luna. “Huh?” Korm looks at her in surprise and with a little suspicion. “I thought you’d be screaming about him wanting to give us a job and threatening to kill him if he made an offer and us if we accepted. What gives?” “I don’t do that!” says Luna indignantly. After looking at the four expressions (with even Six’s unchanging visage managing to convey his thoughts on the subject) that meet the comment, she throws her hands in the air and admits, “Okay, okay – I may say that sometimes! I just thought it might be fun to check this one out.” “Why?” asks Six. “What is different here?” Luna looks mutinous and reluctant to add more, but finally she says, “I was talking to Elaine about Ryger and she mentioned that he’s single and unattached. And supposed to be quite handsome. I was thinking that maybe I’d like to be a pirate princess.” There is silence for a moment as everyone’s mind unwillingly comprehends the images the statement creates. “All right,” says Nameless finally, and flatly. “We’re taking Regalport off our ‘to do’ list.” “What?! Just because I want to meet some guy? Go to hell!” Luna gives a dirty look at Korm, who has dissolved into helpless laughter, and growls, “I would make an awesome pirate princess! And just think how much you guys could make out of the deal!” “I don’t think there’s enough money to make that worthwhile,” mutters Gareth. “Phhftt!! You idiots are just jealous! Anyway, the Lhazaar Principalities are supposed to be beautiful, and there are tons of empty islands over there. We could easily find one of our own, to go with the house in Sharn and the estate here. I’d love to have my own island!” “Sometimes I would love you to have your own island too,” says Six, with a metallic chuckle. Before Luna can reply, Nameless cuts in. “Fine – we’ll visit Regalport later, but first we’re off to Q’barra. Everyone gather around.” “Hold on,” says Gareth, heading for the door. “I have to tell mom we probably won’t be home for dinner.” As he exits, Nameless shakes his head. “We have got to be the only adventurers on the planet who have to do that before we leave home.” [/QUOTE]
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